Showing personality in the kitchen! This kitchen is so rich in style and personality. These cabinets are semi custom, inset construction with a soft textured glaze applied. This is an older home that had the good fortune of finding an owner to bring it back to life. Our designer Lisa Murphy has been designing kitchens for 30 years and absolutely know how to put together an magnificent kitchen in beauty and function. Photographs by @Mikeakaskel.

"You only do this once in a lifetime.” That’s what this homeowner told our team about their historic brownstone renovation in downtown Jersey City, and we took it to heart. This project was more than just a renovation; it was also an act of great creativity and care. After all, when you do something once in a lifetime, you want to do it right. We were fortunate to work with a homeowner with a clear, precise vision. Prior to hiring us, the homeowner partnered with an architect to design the space. As such, we handled the project management and practical implementation of the plans. (We also ensured that the work met the requirements of the Jersey City Historic Preservation Board.) This extensive remodel included demolition and rebuilding of a one-story addition in preparation for the installation of a new, modern kitchen. After replacing the original load-bearing brick wall with a steel header, we also leveled the floors and added new engineered hardwood flooring with hydronic radiant underfloor heating for chilly winter days. A completely redone lighting and electrical plan included LED recessed light fixtures, recessed speakers, and motorized transom windows … perfect for letting in some fresh air to compliment the gorgeous natural light streaming in from the skylights. The finished space juxtaposes sleek, ultramodern European appliances, finishes, cabinetry, and fixtures with original, historic woodwork. We completed a new, modern powder room installation and also installed historic door casings, baseboard mouldings, and plaster mouldings. The homeowner was thrilled with the end result, celebrating every carefully-chosen detail. Together, we admired the different light fixtures, the custom kitchen cabinetry, and how the built-in hall closet left just enough space to preserve the historic mouldings beside it. Moments like those make all the hard work worthwhile. Do you have a compelling vision for your space? Then contact Houseplay today; we’ll help to take your idea from concept to finished product. Photo credit: Anne Ruthmann Photography

Rich and Janet approached us looking to downsize their home and move to Corvallis to live closer to family. They were drawn to our passion for passive solar and energy-efficient building, as they shared this same passion. They were fortunate to purchase a 1050 sf house with three bedrooms and 1 bathroom right next door to their daughter and her family. While the original 55-year-old residence was characterized by an outdated floor plan, low ceilings, limited daylight, and a barely insulated outdated envelope, the existing foundations and floor framing system were in good condition. Consequently, the owners, working in tandem with us and their architect, decided to preserve and integrate these components into a fully transformed modern new house that embodies the perfect symbiosis of energy efficiency, functionality, comfort and beauty. With the expert participation of our designer Sarah, homeowners Rich and Janet selected the interior finishes of the home, blending lush materials, textures, and colors together to create a stunning home next door to their daughter’s family. The successful completion of this wonderful project resulted in a vibrant blended-family compound where the two families and three generations can now mingle and share the joy of life with each other.

This backyard is rich with optional gathering places. The natural gas firepit is a powerful draw, often with a conversation circle that extends beyond the five Muskoka chairs. Fortunately, the adjoining garden retaining wall happens to be at a perfect height for extra seating.

“The kitchen sets the foundation for the rest of the house,” Kehayes says. Fortunately, the designer nailed it on the first draft. “Lynn didn’t change a thing about that kitchen, she said ‘It’s so me!’ From that moment on, she kind of just trusted me.” One notable design element is showcased in separate refrigerator and freezer areas. Black panels with arched tops that mirror the shape of the front door, conceal the two appliances. Kehayes says, “I picked up that shape from a door that was in the background of an inspirational photo Lynn shared at our first meeting.”

Originally Built in 1903, this century old farmhouse located in Powdersville, SC fortunately retained most of its original materials and details when the client purchased the home. Original features such as the Bead Board Walls and Ceilings, Horizontal Panel Doors and Brick Fireplaces were meticulously restored to the former glory allowing the owner’s goal to be achieved of having the original areas coordinate seamlessly into the new construction.

These clients win the award for ‘Most Jarrett Design Projects in One Home’! We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have been able to work with these kind folks so consistently over the years. The most recent project features their master bath, a room they have been wanting to tackle for many years. We think it was well worth the wait! It started off as an outdated space with an enormous platform tub open to the bedroom featuring a large round column. The open concept was inspired by island homes long ago, but it was time for some privacy. The water closet, shower and linen closet served the clients well, but the tub and vanities had to be updated with storage improvements desired. The clients also wanted to add organized spaces for clothing, shoes and handbags. Swapping the large tub for a dainty freestanding tub centered on the new window, cleared space for gorgeous his and hers vanities and armoires flanking the tub. The area where the old double vanity existed was transformed into personalized storage closets boasting beautiful custom mirrored doors. The bathroom floors and shower surround were replaced with classic white and grey materials. Handmade vessel sinks and faucets add a rich touch. Soft brass wire doors are the highlight of a freestanding custom armoire created to house handbags adding more convenient storage and beauty to the bedroom. Star sconces, bell jar fixture, wallpaper and window treatments selected by the homeowner with the help of the talented Lisa Abdalla Interiors provide the finishing traditional touches for this sanctuary. Jacqueline Powell Photography

Originally Built in 1903, this century old farmhouse located in Powdersville, SC fortunately retained most of its original materials and details when the client purchased the home. Original features such as the Bead Board Walls and Ceilings, Horizontal Panel Doors and Brick Fireplaces were meticulously restored to the former glory allowing the owner’s goal to be achieved of having the original areas coordinate seamlessly into the new construction.

With Pinterest, Houzz and HGTV, homeowners have more sources for inspiration than ever before. You may have found, however, that replicating what you see online or on TV isn’t always that simple. Mastering proportion and scale can be especially challenging. Let’s say you fall in love with an oversized vase which looks like it will fit with the colors and textures in your living room. But once it’s there, the vase doesn’t look the way you expected and you don’t know now to make it work. Fortunately, designers are experienced not only in dealing with proportion and scale, but in handling multiple elements at once. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you understand some of the considerations regarding size. Proportion Tips 1. Less is more In the home shown here, the rooms are on the smaller side, where it would seem counterintuitive to use oversized pieces. But using smaller pieces can look busy—and can actually make the rooms feel smaller, especially when you add personal belongings to the space. 2. Keep it simple Several oversized pieces can create clean, simple lines. We put this principle to work using oversized items as anchors on both sides of the fireplace in the living room. On one side, we have two oversized blown-glass vases with amber, silver and purple tones. The irregular shapes in these beautiful pieces create interest and contrast; you can see through them and you can see the room reflected in them. On the other side of the fireplace sit two oversized brass lanterns filled with driftwood and greenery; the contents can be switched out seasonally, as well. The vases on one side and lanterns on the other side establish pattern (two of each, in descending order), balance and simplicity. 3. Embrace the unexpected On the mantle above the fireplace rests another oversized piece—a painting of a barn. Its neutral colors pick up the tones in the stone behind it and again, it works to bring simplicity to the space, rather than overly fussy detail. Nearby, just up the stairs, is an unusually spacious landing. A bench and pillows transform it into a special reading or conversation spot. The pair of hammered nickel vases on the window sill repeats the pattern established on either side of the fireplace. Using oversized vases in lieu of a window treatment is unexpected—as is incorporating sleek, modern-shaped vases like these in a farmhouse-style home. Yet because of the other oversized objects nearby, the vases feel distinctive and delightful. 4. Coordinate pattern and rhythm Another oversized item is the table lamp in the living room. It’s a powerful light; aside from the overhead can lights, it’s the room’s only light source. The ridges on its ceramic base echo the pieces of wicker in the stunning basket behind the sofa. This oversized wicker basket, which we’re a bit in love with, features a very large weave along with elegant leather straps. It’s ideal for storing throws, cushions, board games or anything else you want out of sight. 5. Proximity matters This home’s dining room is just to the right of the entry. An immense floor mirror—double-framed in weathered wood—is placed opposite the front windows. Measuring seven feet high, it’s a bold piece. And it works perfectly in this space to reflect light and make the room feel larger. An oversized ceramic vase, with a porous, matte-stone finish, sits atop a table next to the mirror. Other regular-sized items share the small table, including a bottle of wine and a glass vase. But because of the enormous mirror, it was important to have one oversized item on that table, for balance.

This fall, Amethyst had the opportunity to partner with Freeman Custom Homes of Kansas City to furnish this 5000 sq ft European Modern designed home for the Artisan Home Tour 2020! Every square inch of this home was magical -- from the secret staircase in the master bath leading to a private shuttered plunge pool to the vaulted kitchen with sky high mushroom colored cabinetry and handmade zellige tile. We met the builders during the cabinetry phase and watching their final, thoughtful design details evolve was such full of over-the-top surprises like the unique valet-like storage in the entry and limestone fireplace! As soon as we saw their vision for the home, we knew our furnishings would be a great match as our design style celebrates handmade rugs, artisan handmade custom seating, old-meets-new art, and let's be honest -- we love to go big! They trusted us to do our thing on the entire main level and we enjoyed every minute. The load in took 3 full trucks and fortunately for us -- the homeowners fell in love with several pieces so our uninstall trip was significantly lighter. I think we were all a little emotional leaving this masterpiece but sooooo happy for the owners and just hoping we get invited to a Christmas party... Here are some of the highlights -- 90% of the furnishings and rugs were from our shop and we filled in the gaps with some extra special pieces!

This fall, Amethyst had the opportunity to partner with Freeman Custom Homes of Kansas City to furnish this 5000 sq ft European Modern designed home for the Artisan Home Tour 2020! Every square inch of this home was magical -- from the secret staircase in the master bath leading to a private shuttered plunge pool to the vaulted kitchen with sky high mushroom colored cabinetry and handmade zellige tile. We met the builders during the cabinetry phase and watching their final, thoughtful design details evolve was such full of over-the-top surprises like the unique valet-like storage in the entry and limestone fireplace! As soon as we saw their vision for the home, we knew our furnishings would be a great match as our design style celebrates handmade rugs, artisan handmade custom seating, old-meets-new art, and let's be honest -- we love to go big! They trusted us to do our thing on the entire main level and we enjoyed every minute. The load in took 3 full trucks and fortunately for us -- the homeowners fell in love with several pieces so our uninstall trip was significantly lighter. I think we were all a little emotional leaving this masterpiece but sooooo happy for the owners and just hoping we get invited to a Christmas party... Here are some of the highlights -- 90% of the furnishings and rugs were from our shop and we filled in the gaps with some extra special pieces!

A young family of four recently purchased a home with an unfinished basement. Each member of the family had their own opinion of how to use the space: dad wanted a music room, mom loves to dance and have parties, and the children wanted a media/game room where they could hang out with their friends. Fortunately, the basement was big enough to meet all their needs. The renovation includes a secluded sound proof music room that doubles as an office, a home gym with full-length mirrors and a multi-purpose area for dancing and entertaining. A full bar area with sink, dishwasher, microwave, wine cooler and under-the-counter refrigerator features granite countertops and custom cabinetry. Complete with high-back bar stools, it is a great gathering space during the parties the family loves to host. The focal point of the basement is a gas fireplace with ledger stone surround. Mood lighting, sconces, pendants, recessed lights and a disco ball provide plenty of lighting options. Last, but not least, is a high-tech media room with 110” large screen television. Let the games begin!

Need a cool, industrial console table or sofa table? Here is one we made for no other than George Clooney. That's right, George Clooney! We’d love to build one for you as well. It would work great for a console or sofa table, but also as a neat TV Stand or media console. We can make it any size you’d like and in any configuration, but this listing is for one as pictured and it’s 76” W x 16” D x 30” high (email us for pricing for custom configuration.). It is made of a beautiful reclaimed wood and we have several wood options available (we will always have a dark color, light color, and one in between –just let us know which one you like at check-out by including a note with your order). Changes can be made to the configuration such as using steel or a different wood. Some changes to the design can be done at no charge, while some may affect the price a bit. Feel free to contact us for details. Our clients include Bose, XBox, Vans, Hard Rock Café, Starwood Hotels, and many other fortune 500 companies, not to mention countless wonderful homeowners. _________________________________ Visit us at www.combine9.com Price for one as shown $2,850 _________________________________ * All rights reserved; Combine 9 Design, LLC, 2015

1,020 sq ft loft apartment. We were fortunate to already have wiring in for four ceiling light fixtures. Given that the space was primarily one open space, I felt that all of the pendant lighting should match. The four matching ceiling pendants are inspired by a 1958 design by Louis Poulsen. The custom free standing modular storage/ media unit is made of painted wood and sliding mirrored panels and doors. The Lotus sectional sofa is available through Softline Furniture in Denmark. It was slip covered in a traditional black and white Ikat fabric. The three waxed rusted steel open cubes used as coffee tables were actually a street find of the client's. The 7 ft x 26 inches long dining table is a custom design by FR Gillette. Given the width of the room the narrow table with a bench and five chairs worked well, where eight chairs would have been impossible.

Chic is a French word associated with stylishness, while Rustic means related to, or suitable for the country.Together, Rustic Chic is an interior design alchemy, the chic suggesting culture, fashion and trendiness, while the Rustic element idealizes a natural pastoral charm. This style tends to reclaim the old, and reinvent materials characterized by imperfect finishes. Rough-hewn finishes, marks, divots, scratches and imperfections are purposeful. The materials themselves often provide historical reference (either real or imagined) and are incorporated to balance hardness (think steel, iron and brick) with the softness of modern furniture and softgoods. Exposed brick walls can be a key component of this look, but wallpapers can do the job if you aren’t fortunate enough to have the real thing. Scaffold planks, exposed conduit, timber and fencing can be added to create a depth of character; and when paired with modern styled furnishings and accoutrements – this is a fresh, nostalgic minded trend that we’ll be seeing well through 2020.

The original structure at Yankee Point was a simple 1970s home with “good bones.” Unfortunately, it was also a case where less-than-poetic considerations threatened to eclipse design. Setbacks, height and footprint restrictions and other building regulations had boxed in the renovation to the point where there was literally nowhere left to build. Fortunately, the house sat 6' above grade on the ocean side. With some three-dimensional ingenuity, this ultimately provided ample space to add a new full height lower level without exceeding stringent lot coverage limitations. Today, upon entering the residence, you catch a quick glimpse of the ocean views and of the cascading roof lines designed to echo the motions of ocean waves beyond. The space opens up as you move toward the ocean to reveal a panoramic view.

This fall, Amethyst had the opportunity to partner with Freeman Custom Homes of Kansas City to furnish this 5000 sq ft European Modern designed home for the Artisan Home Tour 2020! Every square inch of this home was magical -- from the secret staircase in the master bath leading to a private shuttered plunge pool to the vaulted kitchen with sky high mushroom colored cabinetry and handmade zellige tile. We met the builders during the cabinetry phase and watching their final, thoughtful design details evolve was such full of over-the-top surprises like the unique valet-like storage in the entry and limestone fireplace! As soon as we saw their vision for the home, we knew our furnishings would be a great match as our design style celebrates handmade rugs, artisan handmade custom seating, old-meets-new art, and let's be honest -- we love to go big! They trusted us to do our thing on the entire main level and we enjoyed every minute. The load in took 3 full trucks and fortunately for us -- the homeowners fell in love with several pieces so our uninstall trip was significantly lighter. I think we were all a little emotional leaving this masterpiece but sooooo happy for the owners and just hoping we get invited to a Christmas party... Here are some of the highlights -- 90% of the furnishings and rugs were from our shop and we filled in the gaps with some extra special pieces!

The upstairs of this 200 yr old farm house featured sloped ceilings I worked with the sloped ceiling and room for only one chest, to offer room to walk within the room. The room fortunately can hold a king bed, and is welcoming today for her guests.

Redesigning a space doesn't have to cost a fortune. This room was designed with a budget of less than $2,500. Some strategic shopping made it a reality and the outcome is a gorgeous living space!